Polaris has rated all 50 states and the District of Columbia based on 10 categories of laws that are critical to a basic legal framework that combats human trafficking, punishes traffickers and supports survivors.

37 states passed new laws to fight human trafficking in the past year

As of July 31, 2014, 39 states are now rated in Tier 1 (7+ points), up from 32 states in 2013

12 states have failed to make minimal efforts to pass laws that support victims

Delaware, New Jersey, and Washington have perfect scores, meaning they have laws fulfilling all 10 categories

5 states were most improved this year: Delaware, New Hampshire, Colorado, Pennsylvania, and Utah